State government's nod to the long-awaited project of a ropeway between Bhunter and Bijli Mahadev shrine has spread a wave of cheer among the people of Kharahal valley in Kullu district.

State government's nod to the long-awaited project of a ropeway between Bhunter and Bijli Mahadev shrine has spread a wave of cheer among the people of Kharahal valley in Kullu district.

According to locals, establishment of this ropeway would give impetus to spiritual tourism in the region, where thousands of people from across the country visited to pay obeisance to Lord Shiva at the popular shrine of Bijli Mahadev, located at an altitude of about 2,460m in the Kharahal valley. Currently it can be approached only after a 3km trek.

Talking to HT, Baldev Kumar, a native of Kharahal valley, said establishment of this project would also provide new avenues of employment to the locals.

Om Prakash, member of the Kullu zila parishad, said, "We have fought a long battle for this project since 1986, and our efforts have finally borne fruit. However, we urge the government not to permit any private or government construction for commercial purpose in the 2-km radius of Bijli Mahadev, which may harm its panoramic view."

"Establishment of this ropeway will make journey of tourists easier, which will definitely increase the tourist arrivals in the region," he added.

Due to high altitude of Bijli Mahadev, a panoramic view of Kullu and Parvati valleys can be seen from the temple.